The example of one can have an effect on millions. Often, the leaders of humanity have strong physical characteristics. From bulging muscles to long black hair. Their philosophies focus on war and violence. However, “an eye for an eye will only make the world blind” (Gandhi). Gandhi was a very small and frail man, but his philosophies had a major influence on citizens and leaders. The philosophies and life of Mahatma Gandhi affected the leadership and life of Martin Luther King, Jr. Introduction To seek “truth” is to be able to realize who we are and what “destiny” is (McLeod , Saul). However, there are always obstacles on the way. Most generally, truth is found in the environment and in our DNA. BF Skinner taught that who we are is based on our environment. We respond to reinforcement. For example, if we grew up in an environment that rewarded us for certain behaviors, we are more likely to engage in the behaviors that rewarded us in positive ways (McLeod, Saul). What if these behaviors negatively influence us as a society? It does not seem psychological for an individual to defend their beliefs because they have not seen the truth in their own life. However, the human mind is very complex. He notices not only the truth in our own lives but also in the lives around us. Gandhi was one of these truth seekers. He noticed a problem and decided to take action. However, his actions would change the typical solution of most leaders. Mahatma Gandhi Mahatma Gandhi was great among philosophers but small in society. "Gandhi was born on October 2, 1869, in Porbandar, in the western part of India, to Karamchand Gandhi, chief minister of Porbandar, and his wife Putlibai, a devout Hindu (Stanford)." When Gandhi reached the eighth grade... middle of paper ...... ahatma Gandhi, the king might not have been able to resolve racial segregation through peace. In conclusion, Mahatma Gandhi's philosophies and life affected the leadership and life of Martin Luther King Jr. Works Cited Dalton, Dennis. “Gandhi: Selected Political Writings.” Google Books. Google Books and Web. April 01, 2014. "Martin Luther King Jr. - Biographical". Nobelprize.org. Nobel Media AB 2013. web. April 1, 2014.McLeod, Saul. “Skinner – Operant Conditioning.” B.F. Skinner. SimplyPsychology, 2007. Web. March 31, 2014.Nazarali-Stranieri, Farah. “Student Leader – The Most Influential Leader of the 20th Century.” Student Leader – The most influential leader of the 20th century. Oxendine Publishing, nd Web. April 1, 2014.Stanford. "Gandhi, Mohandas Karamchand (1869-1948)." Gandhi, Mohandas Karamchand (1869-1948). Stanford University, nd Web. April 1. 2014.